Suicide came as 'shock' to family

A TEENAGER who took his own life had used cannabis since the age of 13 and had a troubled time at school, an inquest heard.

Daniel Hopkins was 18 when he was found hanged at his family home in Hill Street, Kingswood, in December 2011, Flax Bourton Coroner's Court heard yesterday.

In a statement his mother Debbie Hill said she had taken him to the doctor in 2005, when he was 11, because she had concerns about his behaviour, as he had been suspended from his primary school eight times that year.

Daniel was referred to mental health services in 2007, when he had been out of school for eight weeks after being excluded. He left school in Year 10 and did not complete his GCSEs.

In January 2011, after being arrested for a minor offence, he was referred to a youth offending team and said that he had a "low mood".

He admitted that he had used cannabis from the age of 13 to help him block out negative thoughts. He visited the team again in May and reported suicidal thoughts.

But Ms Hill said although Daniel had argued with his girlfriend shortly before his death he had shown no signs of being suicidal.

She said his death had been a "complete shock" to the family.

Police reported that notes had been found near his body.

Deputy coroner Gail Elliman recorded a verdict of suicide.

â Most people who are thinking of taking their own life have given warning signs beforehand. These can include becoming depressed or withdrawn, showing sudden changes in behaviour or mood, talking about wanting to die and feelings of hopelessness. These feelings do improve and can be treated.

If you are concerned about someone, or need help yourself, please contact the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 day or night.